New York Proposal

How to Propose in New York

New York City has a reputation for being one of the most romantic cities in the world. From the bustling streets of downtown Manhattan, to the serene ponds of the Central Park, it's been the perfect place to get engaged for thousands of starry-eyed couples. Whether you're a born & bred New Yorker or just visiting the Big Apple, below are tips, advice and ideas for those planning a marriage proposal in a New York City locale. If you would like help planning or executing your marriage proposal email now.

Consider the Season

New York City has a 4-season climate with a defined spring, summer, fall and winter. As you're planning your engagement and selecting a venue, keep in mind that the season and weather will play a huge part in your marriage proposal. The idea of a romantic picnic in the park will certainly not work in November just as a rooftop engagement at noon in July will surely result in serious sunburns. If your heart is set on proposing at Christmas, don't forget that the possibility of a snow storm is a true threat. While it may not affect the marriage proposal itself, if your flight to New York is cancelled or on the limo you booked can't drive through drifts, your dream engagement might be thrown into chaos. Always have a Plan B when it comes to getting engaged in New York City.

Think Outside Central Park.

Everyone loves Central Park. With its iconic backdrops, rolling hills and rich history, thousand of couples have chosen it as their perfect place to get engaged. That's exactly why you should think twice before doing your marriage proposal in Central Park. The idea of walking up to the Bow Bridge or Belvedere Castle, ring in hand and ready to propose...when suddenly you spot another couple getting engaged in that very location, it's anyone's nightmare! Granted, the park is huge, but even the drivers of the horse-drawn carriages have seen so many marriage proposals that it's no longer a special occasion for them. If you have your heart set on proposing in an NYC park, take a look at some more secluded, off-the-beaten-track parks like the Cloisters, Brooklyn Bridge Park or Flushing Meadows. You'll have a one-of-a-kind marriage proposal instead of something cookie-cutter.

Need more help? You can have your proposal planned by The Heart Bandits, the best Proposal Planners in the world. As the experts in marriage proposal planning, The Heart Bandits have designed and produced dream engagements across the country and worldwide. Packages range from simple brainstorming marriage proposal ideas to organizing and producing your engagement from start to finish.

There's Life Outside of Manhattan

Contrary to what you may have seen on Sex and the City, there is a whole amazing world of New York City, OUTSIDE of Manhattan. Looking for something more pastoral, less city? Try the borough of parks - Staten Island. The free ferry boat ride to the quiet island could be the perfect backdrop for you to pop the question. Want a location with a killer skyline view of NYC? The best marriage proposal places with skyline views of New York are in Brooklyn or Queens where you can see all the way from the financial district to Empire State and Chrysler Buildings. If you're looking to infuse true New York into your engagement, head to a theater in the Bronx or the cobblestone streets of Brooklyn. Don't be held back by NYC cliches and look for the perfect location outside of Manhattan.

Romantic Restaurants are not your only option

Some New York City restaurants make their living by being the "perfect restaurant for your marriage proposal." Steer clear of those restaurants by doing a little extra reconaissance. If your heart is set on proposing at a restaurant, put more research into it than just googling and picking from the top one or two results. One of the best things about New York is that there are thousands of little hole-in-the-wall bistros, cafes, and historic buildings. There's no reason you should end up popping the question in a "proposal factory" restaurant. Imagine how terrible you'd feel if you were minutes way from proposing and two tables over, one your fellow diners pops the question and steals your thunder!

Traffic Tangles

New York City has long been famous for its traffic problems. When it comes to the tunnels, avenues, streets and alleys of NYC, things can get tangled very quickly. When planning your engagement in New York, be sure to consider the traffic as a key element. If you've booked a special musician, photographer or location to propose that requires you to take a taxi, limo or car service, you'll want to set up a contingency plan in case traffic creates a serious delay. Check with your limo or car service to get their expert opinion on how long it will take from point A to point B before booking your location.

Tourist Traps

Movies like Sleepless in Seattle have popularized marriage proposals at NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square and Rockefeller Center. But, the reality of getting engaged at an iconic New York City location is significantly less romantic. A perfect example is the Empire State Building. While the views are spectacular, you may not realize that you have to stand in a very long line and go through multiple metal detectors before arriving at the observation deck. Many engagements have been spoiled by a clueless metal detector inspector. Before you decide to propose at a tourist location in New York, make sure you take the whole picture into account.

Beware of Marriage Proposal Cliches

When it comes to getting engaged in New York City, there are so many options and ideas - there's no reason to settle for something cookie-cutter. Steer clear of any cheesy, cliched marriage proposal ideas. Remember that your engagement story should reflect you as a couple and your unique love story. Run away from anything that involves putting her ring in a champagne glass or inside her dessert course. If you are interested in a package, check out these packages that don't fall into the cheesy category.

Want more help?You can have your proposal planned by The Heart Bandits. As the experts in marriage proposal planning, The Heart Bandits have designed and produced dream engagements across the country and worldwide. Packages range from simple brainstorming marriage proposal ideas to organizing and producing your engagement from start to finish. Call 800-520-5972 or email now.